13.04: The next generation of Eurocode 4

Abstract

ABSTRACTWork is under way on the next generation of Eurocodes. These will build on the work done by the original authors and seek to enhance the ease of use of the code as well as include revisions requested by users and resulting from research work over the last ten to twenty years. In addition there is an ambition to reduce the number of Nationally Determined Parameters as some relate to the lack of a consensus at the time of the initial drafting of the codes rather than aspects of the code e.g. safety factors that remain the prerogative of the Member States. Eurocode 4 has been well received but improvements can always be made. The systematic review process has highlighted areas where users want clarification or change. Project teams have also been set up to look at three specific aspects of the code. In addition as Eurocode 4 relies on Eurocode 2 and Eurocode 3 an improvement in the harmonisation between the three codes has been requested. This paper sets out the main areas which are being considered during the revision process. Throughout the process the need to balance the benefit of any changes against the disruption that this will make to existing users has been considered.